Anthony Martial has found a new club following his Manchester United exit.
(Image: Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Anthony Martial breaks silence after Man United exit with trophy claim as shock transfer sealed

19 Sep 2024, 17:59 by Stephen Killen · Manchester Evening News

Former Manchester United striker Anthony Martial has been unveiled as an AEK Athens player.

The Frenchman joined the Greek giants, ending his time as a free agent after his release from United in the summer. The 28-year-old has said he is looking to win trophies and will do his best to help them achieve their aspirations.

Martial's contract at Old Trafford expired in the summer as his eight-year spell in the Premier League came to an end. The former AS Monaco forward saw his final months as a United player hampered by injury, managing just 19 appearances in all competition - 13 of which came in the Premier League.

On Thursday, he was officially confirmed as the latest star in the Greek Super League, joining the league leaders on a three-year deal. Matias Almeyda's side are unbeaten in their first four league matches, winning three and drawing once - scoring nine goals as they look to restore their place at the summit.

There will be a familiar face in the squad as Erik Lamela, formerly of Tottenham Hotspur, will be one of his new teammates. While the brother of former United loanee Sofyan Amrabat, Nordin, is also in the ranks.

"I am very happy," Martial said. "AEK is an opportunity for me and I will give my best to achieve things, win trophies and bring joy to the world of the team."

Martial could make his debut as quickly as this Sunday when AEK travel to Athens Kallithea, a team just two points clear of the foot of the table. The former United star will get his first taste of one of the biggest games in Greek football when Panathinaikos travel to the OPAP Arena on Sunday, September 29.

Martial's time in the Premier League came to an end in the summer, after winning the FA Cup, EFL Cup and Europa League during his time in Manchester. "Manchester United will always be in my heart," he wrote at the time of his departure. .

"This club has left its mark on my career and offered me an incredible opportunity to play in front of you. I'm leaving to take on new challenges, I'll always be a Red Devil and I'll continue to follow the club's results with passion."

Get United transfer news and updates on WhatsApp!

Our team of Manchester United experts are on top of all the goings-on at Old Trafford for this week and beyond, and you can get the latest team news, injury updates, reaction and analysis along with inside information to your phone by joining our new free WhatsApp community. You can also join the 50,000 (and growing!) band of United fans who are following our WhatsApp Channel.

Sign up to our community here, and join our WhatsApp channel here.

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.